Off to open the new JobCentre Plus in Wood Green. My goodness what a fabulous office. The first floor is spacious and designed in a comfortable and comforting way, fab colours – but most of all – a wall of windows that go on for ever and curve along the whole length of the open plan space – and which look out of a little green area of land. Just gorgeous – and given my obsession with the built environment and the effect it has on behaviour – this is an absolutely shining example,

On the ground floor – where those seeking employment will come – the design is clean and modern and well organised. I opened the new premises with a little speech and then went and talked to each of the staff – for it is the care and attention, commitment and attitude of the staff that will change peoples’ lives here. It is no cake walk to get those who are long-term unemployed off of benefits and into work, and here they also cater for people with disabilities, mental health challenges and lone parents. So many barriers to break down – and so much confidence needed to move from dependency to work.

Each and every one of the staff I spoke to from Dave (one of the security guards) to Eileen (the overarching manager) was so committed and enthusiastic I was really thrilled. They already do a great job, but I have no doubt they will go further in these new integrated premises and services.